High surf, threat of rip currents continues along SoCal beaches. Here's what to know

LOS ANGELES (CNS) -- High surf and dangerous rip currents were expected to continue along Southern California beaches, with forecasters warning beachgoers to exercise caution as large swells persist through Thursday evening.

A High Surf Advisory remains in effect until 8 p.m. Thursday for Los Angeles County beaches and the Malibu coast, where waves of 4 to 7 feet and local sets of 8 to 12 feet were forecast by the National Weather Service.

A Beach Hazards Statement also remains in effect through 5 p.m. Thursday for Orange County beaches, where forecasters predicted surf of 4 to 7 feet.

The National Weather Service said a high risk of life-threatening rip currents is expected to continue through Thursday across much of the Southern California coast.

"There is an increased risk of ocean drowning," the National Weather Service stated. "Rip currents can pull swimmers and surfers out to sea. Waves can wash people off beaches and rocks and capsize small boats near shore."

The weather agency said a high risk of life-threatening rip currents is expected to continue through Thursday, with surf gradually subsiding to 3 to 6 feet later in the day.

Surf conditions were expected to improve Friday, when wave heights were forecast to diminish and the rip current risk is expected to decrease to moderate.